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Water Quality at Beaches in the MBNMS

beach cleanupIn accordance with State statutes individual counties are required to monitor ocean water at public beaches and water contact sports areas. These samples are analyzed for bacteriological "indicator" organisms. Elevated concentrations of indicator organisms are suggestive of contamination by human sewage and other wastes, which may result in human disease. When bacterial indicator organisms exceed the State guidelines for beaches, the county health departments take appropriate actions to investigate the cause of contamination and ensure that the public is safe.

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary provides the following links to each of the county health departments to provide the latest information about beach postings or closures based on the most recent bacteriological test information.

For more information check out these links:

 

Reviewed: July 18, 2024
Web Site Owner: National Ocean Service

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